Stephen A. Smith issues Arch Manning warning before Tennessee game as Steve Sarkisian faces crucial quarterback test
Speaking on ESPN’s First Take on September 24, Smith said Manning must avoid mistakes, while Texas must stop Tennessee’s strong running game. The matchup is Manning’s first trip to Neyland Stadium and Texas’ first true road game of 2026, making every possession especially important here in Knoxville. Tennessee entered the Texas game 3 0 after wins over Furman, Georgia Tech and Kennesaw State. The Volunteers ran for 299 yards against Georgia Tech, with DeSean Bishop rushing for 147 yards and two touchdowns. Daune Morris added 98 yards and a score, according to Tennessee Athletics. Through two games, the freshman quarterback had 374 passing yards, five touchdowns and no interceptions, according to the University of Tennessee’s official statistics. He completed 17 of 33 passes for 164 yards and two touchdowns in Texas’ 30 6 win.
The Houston Chronicle reported that the Longhorns’ offense struggled for much of the game.
He’s gonna have to capitalize off of the few opportunities he’s going to get,” Smith said on First Take. ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith has put the focus on one issue before Texas faces Tennessee: Arch Manning cannot afford to waste his chances. “Of course, uh, Arch Manning is gonna have to avoid some making some mistakes. “But to me, the key is, can Texas stop Tennessee from running the football down their throat? If they can do that, they win this game. If they can’t, they don’t. It’s that simple to me. The numbers explain the concern. Manning’s challenge comes after a quieter showing against UTSA.
Texas and Tennessee have not played since 1969 and now meet as SEC opponents, according to AP.
After the UTSA game, the Texas coach said Manning may have relied too much on his legs instead of staying patient through his reads. Steve Sarkisian has also pointed to an issue that could become important in Knoxville. The game carries a family angle. Manning visits Neyland for the first time, where uncle Peyton Manning starred.